Tips for Lock Extension Wearers

So you just had your extensions installed and holy cow does it feel both fantastic and terrifying all at once! They’re probably feeling a little floppy, flimsy, fragile, and prickly at the moment -- but don’t panic! Everything you’re experiencing is completely normal, but we want to give you a few helpful tips, tricks, and information about your new length.

Mature Extension Install Prep

 Don't delay on the prep, the sooner you do it the better! 

If the past has shown me anything it's that guests that choose to remove their lock extensions a month prior to having new one's installed have stronger natural locks to attach too. Spending that month extension-free means your natural locks get more time to shift on their own without all the extra weight dragging them down. Think of it as a nice vacation for your lock health -- where I absolutely love long luscious locks, I'm also a huge advocate for the long-term health of your hair -- trust me, you'll appreciate that break a little further down the road!

Starter Install Prep

 Don't delay on the prep, the sooner you do it the better!

If the past has shown me anything it's that guests that choose to prep their hair before having new locks installed tend to have less of an issue with dandruff and itchiness! Spending a month (or two) prior to your install reducing the frequency of your shampoo cycle means your scalp will have more time to adjust its oil production to a less frequent wash cycle -- think of it as a way to make your first few months just a little less stressful. 

Pregnancy, Growth, Loss, and Dreadlocks

The one fact we need to keep in mind throughout this conversation is that our hair growth and loss can be completely dependent on our physical & mental health, nutrition, and the environment around us. This means that anyone can be affected by things like excessive growth, hair loss, and hair thinning -- while some of us remain entirely unaware that anyone else even struggles with these issues, and that’s okay! That’s why we call the transitions into our locked lives, journeys.

Washing and Drying Your Locks

 Washing Your Dreadlocks

Washing once or twice per week is pretty normal for some dreadheads, however others can get away with washing every other week without experiencing scalp buildup or oil issues. Depending on the time of year, how often you're outside, and how much you sweat - you can adjust your washing schedule to what best suits you and your situation. And remember, don't just stop washing your hair because you're afraid it will untangle your knots - clean hair will always lock faster and better than dirty/greasy hair. 

How often should I get maintenance?

Every Two Months

Root Maintenance Only.

This schedule is great for those with extremely curly, coily, or thicker density hair with relatively small locks. For upkeep of micro-locks, small locks, or weak root systems that need their new growth to be pulled through the base of the lock more consistently to avoid thinning and weak spots. This routine keeps your locks more evenly shaped as we have more control over how many loops and bumps form down the length. It also keeps the sectioning crisp and clean for those who prefer a cleaner look. With this routine we do suggest at least one Full Maintenance per year as needed.

My Techniques and Tools

 My Product-free Locking Technique

The main method of lock creation that I utilize is a combination of the backcomb and gentle crochet method. Depending on the situation I may occasionally utilize a threading needle to gently tuck growth into the root system. 

In cases of lock maintenance when separation is needed to unbridge the root system, I will do my best to slip individual hairs from the roots in attempt to forgo breaking the hair strands. Under no circumstances will scissors be involved in cutting the lock with the intent to separate them from each other without prior consent from you. My promise to each of my guests is to always remain completely transparent with each tool or technique I use on you, I will never proceed with a method that you yourself have not approved of.

I do not interlock or use a latch hook.

I do not use wax, gels, or pomades.

I specialize in working with clients who’ve experienced issues of excessive shedding from various genetic disorders, alopecia, improper technique, and postpartum hair loss. My methods remain gentle and painless throughout each service regardless of the amount of work needed to be done.

Our Tools of the Trade:

• 0.35mm Crochet Hook

• 0.45mm Crochet Hook

• 0.50mm Crochet Hook

• Fine Toothed Lice Comb

• Carbon Pin Tail Comb

• Soft Boar Bristle Brush